Loaded Chicken Potato Casserole: 5 Comforting Reasons to Try

Name: Loaded Chicken Potato Casserole: 5 Comforting Reasons to Try
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium potatoes, diced; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

September 20, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh, let me tell you about my loaded chicken potato casserole! It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort like a big, cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Every bite is a delicious blend of tender potatoes, juicy chicken, and creamy goodness, all topped off with a sprinkle of cheese that melts into every nook and cranny. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a family favorite that brings everyone together around the dinner table. I love how simple it is to whip up, yet it feels indulgent and satisfying. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll find yourself craving it time and again, just like we do! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends during a cozy gathering. You’ll love it!

loaded chicken potato casserole - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this hearty loaded chicken potato casserole. Each ingredient plays a vital role in making it absolutely scrumptious!

4 medium potatoes, diced: Choose some good, hearty potatoes. I love using Russets for their fluffiness when baked!
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders here, but feel free to cook your own if you prefer that fresh flavor.
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Go for sharp cheddar if you want that extra kick! It melts beautifully into the dish.
1 cup sour cream: This adds a delightful creaminess that balances the flavors perfectly.
1/2 cup milk: Just regular milk works, but you can use whole or skim based on your preference.
1/4 cup green onions, chopped: These add a fresh, oniony crunch that brightens the casserole.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must-have for that delicious, savory depth of flavor!
1 teaspoon onion powder: This complements the fresh onions and enhances the overall taste.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season well – it really makes all the difference!

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a comforting masterpiece! Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Loaded Chicken Potato Casserole

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! You’ll want to set it to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the casserole cook evenly. You don’t want those potatoes to end up mushy on the edges and hard in the middle, right? So, while you’re prepping the ingredients, let the oven do its thing and warm up to the perfect baking temperature.

Combine Ingredients

Now, let’s dive into mixing those ingredients! Grab a large bowl and toss in your diced potatoes, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and don’t forget the salt and pepper. You want to make sure everything is well combined, so use a sturdy spoon or spatula to gently fold the ingredients together. I usually mix until I can’t see any dry spots, and everything is coated in that lovely creamy goodness. Trust me, that’s where the flavor magic happens!

Transfer to Baking Dish

Next up, it’s time to transfer that delicious mixture into your baking dish. First, grease the dish with a bit of butter or non-stick spray to ensure your casserole comes out easily after baking. I usually use a 9×13-inch dish for this recipe. Once it’s greased, carefully pour the mixture in and spread it out evenly. You want every bite to be filled with that hearty goodness, so make sure it’s nice and level in the dish!

Bake to Perfection

Pop that baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. The smell will start wafting through your home, and you might have a hard time waiting! To check for doneness, poke a fork into the casserole to see if the potatoes are tender. If they feel soft and give a little, you’re good to go! If not, give it a few more minutes and check again. This step is key to achieving that perfect, creamy, and hearty texture!

Cooling and Serving

Once the timer dings, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This little rest helps everything settle and makes serving much easier. When you’re ready to dish it out, scoop generous portions onto plates and don’t be afraid to add a sprinkle of extra green onions on top for that pop of color! Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread, and you’ll have a meal that everyone will rave about!

Tips for Success

To make sure your loaded chicken potato casserole turns out perfectly every single time, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t skip on the seasoning; a good amount of salt and pepper really brings out the flavors, so taste as you mix! Also, if you want an extra crispy top, consider sprinkling a bit more cheddar cheese on the casserole during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.

Another great tip is to let your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set a bit more and makes it easier to serve! And remember, feel free to customize the dish with your favorite veggies or even swap out the chicken for turkey or ham – it’s all about making it your own! Happy cooking!

Variations

The beauty of this loaded chicken potato casserole is its versatility! You can easily customize it to fit your taste or what you have on hand. For a pop of color and nutrition, try adding fresh or frozen vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or even corn. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not switch up the cheese? Instead of cheddar, use pepper jack for a spicy kick or monterey jack for a milder, creamy flavor. You can also mix in some Italian herbs like oregano or basil for an aromatic twist.

And don’t forget about adding some crispy bacon bits or chopped jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor! The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting and make this casserole your own!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the numbers! Each serving of this loaded chicken potato casserole is estimated to pack in about 350 calories. You’ll find it has 15g of fat, with 8g of that being saturated fat. It’s got a nice boost of 25g of protein from the chicken and cheese, making it a satisfying option for a main dish. The casserole also contains 35g of carbohydrates, which includes 3g of fiber to keep you feeling full.

With 600mg of sodium, it’s always a good idea to taste as you go, especially if you’re watching your salt intake. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. So, it’s best to enjoy this hearty meal in moderation as part of a balanced diet!

FAQ Section

Q1: How do I store leftovers of the loaded chicken potato casserole?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Q2: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before shredding it. You can even use a rotisserie chicken from the store for a super quick option if you’re in a hurry!

Q3: What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you’re not a fan of sour cream, you can swap it out for Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture with a tangy flavor. It’s a great option and adds a bit of protein too!

Q4: How can I adjust the cooking time if I’m using a different size baking dish?
If you’re using a smaller or larger baking dish, keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. A smaller dish may cook faster, while a larger one might take a bit longer. Just check for tenderness in the potatoes as your guide!

Q5: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge when it goes in the oven!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Filling: This casserole is packed with potatoes and chicken, making it a satisfying meal that will keep you full.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time, perfect for busy weeknights!
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with hints of garlic and onion that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to include your favorite veggies or cheeses, making it your own!
Great for Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep.